What to do in West Des Moines, IA

Activities, attractions and tours
West Des Moines showing interior views and shopping as well as a large group of people

West Des Moines Attractions

Smaller cities have an appeal about them you won't find in their larger counterparts. Check out all the fun things to see and do in West Des Moines before you head away so you can squeeze the most out of your vacation. You'll soon see that bigger isn't always better!

Discover the sights of West Des Moines with some unique tours & day trips, or try out our list of {4 fun activities in West Des Moines fun activities in West Des Moines}. We have no booking fees and free cancellation, so you can relax and focus on planning the ultimate vacation.

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What to do in West Des Moines

Free Things to Do in West Des Moines

Touring on a budget in West Des Moines? Spend time, not cash, on fabulous experiences.

West Glen Town Center - Stop for a while in this bustling place and imagine life as a local resident.

Mercy Medical Center West Lakes - Speak to a few locals and find out why many travelers call in at this place.

Walnut Woods State Park - Get set for views that'll render you speechless at this natural wonder.

Walnut Woods State Park - Work on your green thumb and marvel at the wide variety of plants on show.

Things to Do in West Des Moines with Kids

You'll find loads of fun things to do with the kids in and around West Des Moines. Keep the crew happy with our family friendly experiences.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in West Des Moines? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Read travel guides and advice on visiting West Des Moines

Ultimate Iowa State Fair Travel Guide

Ultimate Iowa State Fair Travel Guide

Everything you need to know before enjoying the Iowa State Fair
Ultimate Iowa State Fair Travel Guide

Frequently asked questions

What can you do in West Des Moines for free?
Your trip to West Des Moines doesn’t have to cost a fortune with free attractions like these to explore:

  • Jordan Creek Town Center
  • West Glen Town Center
  • Valley West Mall
  • Mercy Medical Center West Lakes

Popular places to visit

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Adventureland

4/5(201 reviews)

Have a fun-filled day at Adventureland and find out why people love this amusement park in Altoona. Experience the area's lively festivals and great live music.

Adventureland
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Principal Park

4.5/5(62 reviews)

Catch an event at Principal Park during your trip to Des Moines. Experience the area's great live music and acclaimed theater scene.

Principal Park
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Iowa State Capitol Building

4.5/5(194 reviews)

A city landmark, this interesting building showcases design and architectural features that created a grand impression in the late 1800s and still inspire today.

Iowa State Capitol Building
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Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

4.5/5(115 reviews)

Experience the tropics in an indoor garden oasis nearly 100 years old alongside a meandering river in this Midwestern city.

Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
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Des Moines Art Center

4.5/5(76 reviews)

Spend time admiring the architectural lines of this art and education center before heading inside to view its outstanding collection.

Des Moines Art Center
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Living History Farms

4.5/5(63 reviews)

You can spend time browsing the exhibits at Living History Farms during your trip to Urbandale. Experience the area's lively festivals and great live music.

Living History Farms
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Jordan Creek Town Center

4.5/5(522 reviews)

You can enjoy retail therapy at Jordan Creek Town Center during your visit to West Des Moines. Experience the area's acclaimed theater scene or attend a sporting event.

Jordan Creek Town Center
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Iowa State Fairgrounds

4.5/5(271 reviews)

Enjoy an outing to Iowa State Fairgrounds during your stay in Des Moines. Experience the area's acclaimed theater scene or attend a sporting event.

Iowa State Fairgrounds
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Wells Fargo Arena

4.5/5(250 reviews)

Catch an event at Wells Fargo Arena during your trip to Des Moines. Experience the area's lively festivals and acclaimed theater scene.

Wells Fargo Arena

Day trip destinations from West Des Moines

Des Moines showing a bridge, a skyscraper and a sunset

Des Moines

Photo by Erik Rowley

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